Pupils return to the classroom as Covid-19 restrictions are largely scrapped in schools across West Berkshire

Pupils have returned to an almost normal learning environment as many Covid restrictions have been scrapped.

Schools have now welcomed children back after the summer holidays, with most primary schools restarting with no bubbles.

Headteacher at Sulhamstead and Ufton Nervet Primary School, Lisa Rees, said the first few days of term had gone "really well".

"All of the staff have been really excited to welcome the pupils back," she added.

"We have relaxed various Covid restrictions, while we are still alert to the strong possibility of positive cases within the community.

"The children are just over the moon to be able to see each other at break and lunchtime too and all the parents have been very understanding.

"It's all going really well."

But while the return to the classroom may have been back to pre-pandemic ways for primary children, secondary schools have still been required to test pupils for coronavirus before their return.

All students have been asked into their schools to undertake two lateral flow tests - one before the term started and a second this week.

They will now be encouraged to continue home testing as a way of keeping the virus under control.

Some schools, such as St Bartholomew's, in Newbury, are also asking pupils to continue wearing face masks as they move around communal areas in the school buildings.

But the return of after-school clubs has given many a boost as the new school year gets underway.